Abstract: The pharmaceutical industry is highly competitive, regulated, and in a permanent state of change. Customers demand instant attention, while suppliers require comprehensive leading edge services with regard to their products. Regulatory authorities require that the industry keep up to date with regulations, following them to the letter. Competitors are always inventing new ways to gain market share, while e-business presents new opportunities and challenges. All the while the pressure to reduce prices and to shorten order cycles is high. Pharmaceutical wholesalers comprise the lifeline within the pharmaceutical industry, providing continuity of supply and facilities for storage. They also offer a range of supporting services, such as information technology systems and product withdrawal notifications, which form an essential part of the total healthcare package. These companies and institutions all operate in an environment where speed and efficiency may mean the difference between life and death. However, the industry has a number of specific requirements that are critical for achieving success in the distribution sector.

Abstract: The challenges that face the manufacturing industry today are also opportunities. Manufacturing is being revolutionized in its processes, routines, and ways of doing business through the growing emergence of order driven production methods. This shift towards demand driven manufacturing is emerging in tandem with the larger currents caused by globalization. This cross industry brief focuses on the manufacturing industry from the standpoint of a demand driven IT solution and is aimed at manufacturing and distribution businesses. It describes some major market trends and issues, provides an overview of IBS supply chain solution, and offers details on how the IBS solution for demand driven manufacturing can address current needs of the industry.

Abstract: If the underlying business assumptions change, the cash flow projections may be critically flawed but the KPI’s can still be relatively reliable indicators of the impact of an IT project. In the long run, IT project KPIs may be the best indicators for IT managers to use in evaluating the results of their IT investments.

Abstract: This paper from Saugatuck Technology discusses relevant criteria for evaluating SaaS solutions targeting small and midsize firms, and raises key questions that should be asked. It is important to ensure that a SaaS solution is well aligned with business requirements, and can accommodate change and growth. The paper also provides an evaluation template for executives to use in conducting evaluations of SaaS solutions.

Abstract: The textile industry is famous for its very different characteristics when compared to industries in either process or discrete manufacturing. Developing production planning and scheduling software for any textile mill is a real challenge even for seasoned industry experts. This article focuses on some of the unique challenges posed to master requirement planning and master production scheduling (MRP / MPS) software vendors by the textile industry.

Abstract: There’s a buzz in the automotive industry around the concept of “strategic workforce management”—getting the right people, for the right job, at the right time, to improve overall business results. Strategic workforce management goes beyond the traditional role of human resources: it’s a strategic initiative and competitive weapon to help today’s automotive companies drive corporate goals and objectives.

Abstract: Despite intense price competition for its volume products, the electrical products industry remains healthy and dynamic. World-class companies are succeeding by marketing innovative products, scaling up and outsourcing production, expanding into new geographic areas, implementing more efficient business systems, and focusing on ever-closer relationships with suppliers, partners, and customers. This white paper explores the issues of manufacturers, wholesalers, and distributors and the current state and future of the industry. Industry specific technological are also discussed.

Abstract: Many oil and gas industry suppliers chose enterprise software prior to 1999, when software designed to meet the needs of the oil and gas industry didn’t exist. This affects the efficiency of these companies—and will prevent them from pursuing new revenue streams in the future. However, project-enabled solutions can now cater to the oil and gas industry’s needs, helping you adjust to current market demands. Learn more.

Abstract: As with any manufacturing operation, process manufacturing has special system requirements such as formulas, unit of measure conversions, and packaging recipes. However, within the realm of process manufacturing, specific industries have needs that are more critical than others. This article explores these critical needs for the food and beverage, chemical, and a hybrid industry (textiles), so that you can focus on these requirements when evaluating enterprise-wide software.

Abstract: As with any manufacturing operation, process manufacturing has special system requirements such as formulas, unit of measure conversions, and packaging recipes. However, within the realm of process manufacturing, specific industries have needs that are more critical than others. This article explores these critical needs for the food and beverage, chemical, and a hybrid industry -- textiles, so that you can focus on these requirements when evaluating enterprise-wide software.

Abstract: The anticipated advancements in cellular wireless technologies allowing far faster connections means that the global wireless market will break the 600 million user mark and break 10 billion (USD) in market value.

Abstract: Applix Inc. has announced an agreement with Pelephone, Israel's second largest cellular network and handset supplier, to deliver its real-time, multi-dimensional On-Line Analytical Processing (OLAP) solution, iTM1 to analyze customer profiles for over 1.2 million Pelephone subscribers.

Abstract: A number of lean manufacturing tools and practices have long been used to reduce manufacturing waste. These include the five S's, visual controls, standardized work, mistake proofing, total productive maintenance, cellular manufacturing, single-digit setup, pull systems, sequencing, activity-based costing, and leveled production.

Abstract: Going mobile has become a growing trend, with many businesses reaching well beyond the use of cellular phones as their only lines of communication. Why? Because these businesses realize that linking the mobile workforce with the enterprise and its data resources—using mobile applications—is key to enhancing productivity, profitability, and customer satisfaction. Choosing the right devices, however, can be very challenging.

Abstract: A comprehensive study done by TechnologyEvaluation.Com has shown that, for years the FBI has been alienating industry security experts. Some of the best industry security professionals want nothing to do with helping the FBI resolve cybercrime. Recently, one of the leading Department of Justice attorneys general, well-known for expertise in successfully prosecuting cybercrime, asked TechnologyEvaluation.Com why so many security and information technology professionals snub their noses at law enforcement agencies that exist to protect our nation's vital assets - private and public. TechnologyEvaluation.Com went behind the scenes to find o

Abstract: For over a decade, SAP has offered industry-specific applications, starting with oil and gas and utilities solutions. Media, insurance, chemicals, banking, and public sector offerings have followed, highlighting SAP's lesser-known side as a market-oriented provider of industry-tailored solutions.

Abstract: Last year’s deregulation of the financial services industry changed the competitive pressures on banks, brokerages, and insurance companies. Firms in this industry have been forced to expand and reorganize their offerings around the customer rather than around products. This makes a perfect case for CRM, and leading vendors are enhancing their offerings to take advantage of the opportunities. Find out how Siebel, E.piphany, and Broadbase are staking their claim.

Abstract: The requirements for the fashion industry are some of the most demanding and unforgiving in the world of manufacturing. If you're not careful, you may find your profits falling on the cutting floor and money being swept out with the scraps. Read on to find out why running with a pair of scissors is not the only dangerous thing when selecting software for the fashion industry and why Intentia's offering bears investigation.